As the weather warms up, Wichita comes to life with outdoor adventures, family attractions and nostalgic favorites reopening for the season. Whether you’re planning a spring break trip, a weekend getaway or just looking for something new to explore, here are some of the top attractions reopening, and one brand-new experience you won’t want to miss.

Kids play on a combine structure at Adventure Playscape

All-new: Adventure Playscape at Exploration Place

A major new addition to Wichita’s riverfront arrives this spring with the opening of the Adventure Playscape at Exploration Place. Spanning more than six acres along the Arkansas River, this interactive outdoor space features 10 Kansas-themed play zones where kids (and adults) can climb, slide, splash and explore, including a towering aviation-themed climbing structure to sunflower-inspired play areas and water features. Designed to blend STEM learning with outdoor play, it’s a fun new way to experience Wichita’s science center while soaking up the sunshine.

Stingrays swim in the water at Stingray Cove at Sedgwick County Zoo

Stingray Cove at Sedgwick County Zoo (final season)

One of the Sedgwick County Zoo’s most popular seasonal experiences is returning for its final run this spring. Stingray Cove opens March 13 for its last season, giving visitors one more chance to get hands-on with these fascinating ocean animals. The interactive exhibit lets guests gently touch stingrays as they glide through a large open pool and even feed them during scheduled experiences. Open daily through October, it’s a memorable add-on to a zoo visit.

Flowers are in bloom in colors of pink and purple around the fountain at Botanica Wichita.
Photo Credit: Botanica Wichita

Botanica Wichita’s spring bloom season

Spring is one of the best times to visit Botanica Wichita, recognized by USA Today as a 10Best Botanical Garden. The season really comes alive with Tulipfest starting March 27, when colorful tulips, daffodils and flowering trees transform the 18-acre garden into one of Wichita’s most photogenic spots.

Crowds watch opening credits and welcome message from Starlite Drive-In in Wichita KS

Starlite Drive-In Theater

Few experiences feel more like spring and summer than watching a movie under the stars. Wichita’s iconic Starlite Drive-In is now open for the 2026 season, bringing back nostalgic double features, concession stand classics and sunset views before the show begins. Movies play on two giant screens with audio broadcast through FM radio, so you can watch from your car or bring lawn chairs and blankets for a retro night out.

Three women celebrate while finishing the Prairie Fire Marathon.

Spring festivals and outdoor events

Spring also signals the return of Wichita festivals. Events like Open Streets ICT - WSU and Shocker Neighborhood, which closes parts of the city to cars so people can walk, bike and explore community activities, and the Prairie Fire Spring Half Marathon brings locals and visitors outside as temperatures warm up. These events are part of a packed spring calendar that celebrates Wichita’s neighborhoods, arts scene and outdoor spaces.

Macaw at Tanganyika Wildlife Park

Tanganyika Wildlife Park

Just west of Wichita, Tanganyika Wildlife Park reopens for the season on March 14 with its one-of-a-kind wildlife experience where animal encounters are part of the adventure. Guests can feed giraffes, interact with kangaroos, meet penguins and enjoy hands-on experiences throughout the park. The attraction now operates with an all-inclusive model that bundles animal feedings, food and drinks into admission, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring and making unforgettable animal memories.

Family Time at Field Station Dinosaurs

Field Station: Dinosaurs

Step into a prehistoric adventure when Field Station: Dinosaurs reopens for the season on March 14. Located just south of Wichita, the outdoor attraction features more than 40 life-sized moving dinosaurs along wooded trails, plus live shows, games, fossil digs and an 18-hole Jurassic-themed mini golf course. The park’s spring season kicks off with special events and programming before regular hours begin in April, making it a great option for families visiting Wichita this time of year.

A man and woman kayak on the Arkansas River near the Keeper of the Plains

Paddle, kayak and bike the Arkansas River

Spring also marks the return of outdoor recreation, such as kayaking, along Wichita’s riverfront. Outfitters like Boats & Bikes offer seasonal rentals for kayaks, pedal boats and bicycles so visitors can explore the Arkansas River and nearby trails from a new perspective. It’s an easy way to enjoy Wichita’s growing riverfront, whether you’re paddling past downtown landmarks or cruising along the scenic paths.

People enjoy drinks and food on an outdoor patio on a sunny day in Delano District

Don’t Miss Wichita’s Patios and Brunch Scene

Spring also ushers in the return of patio season in Wichita. After a day of exploring, relax outdoors with craft cocktails, local beer and fresh flavors at some of the city’s best patios, or start the day with one of Wichita’s favorite brunch spots.

With new attractions, returning favorites and plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, spring is the perfect time to explore Wichita. Find even more trip inspiration in our Visitor Guide.